Azra Othman
Subjects studied at GreatfieldsBTEC Health and Social Care (Distinction)
University and course
St Mary’s University – Primary Education with QTS
Career Aspiration
Primary Teacher
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields prepared me well for the course I am studying now, as I received a great deal of advice and support from Miss Goncalves and Miss Begum about both the benefits and challenges of pursuing a career in education. Most of my support came through Health and Social Care, and I deeply appreciate everything the teachers did for me. One piece of advice I would give current students is to choose something they are genuinely interested in and passionate about, because you are the one completing the degree and it can become very difficult if you do not enjoy it or feel motivated by it.
Maryam Salim
Subjects studied at GreatfieldsBTEC Health and Social Care (Distinction)
University and course
King’s College London – Midwifery
Career aspiration
Midwife in Charge within the Labour Ward or a Community Midwife
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields prepared me for university by boosting my confidence, independence, and ability to support others both inside and outside of the classroom. The teachers were extremely supportive throughout my studies, especially Miss Goncalves and Miss Begum in Health and Social Care, who always ensured we had access to resources such as textbooks, past papers, and additional support whenever needed. Their encouragement, resilience, and determination motivated me to work towards my goals, and with such a strong support system around me, I was able to achieve the Triple D* grade I had aimed for. One piece of advice I would give current students is to never allow their circumstances to make them feel they cannot succeed. The support systems at Greatfields are there to guide and encourage students to reach their full potential, and with hard work and self-belief, the sky is truly the limit.
Ayaan Mahmood Ahmed
Subjects studied at Greatfields
Biology (A), Maths (A) and Chemistry (B)
University and course
King’s College London – Pharmacy
Career aspiration
A clinical pharmacist working in a hospital setting, with the possibility of later moving into community pharmacy and owning a pharmacy.
Advice to students currently at Greatfields Greatfields prepared me not only through my A Level subjects, but also for life beyond school. Opportunities such as Work Experience Week, presentations in Biology lessons, and the “Giveback” initiative helped develop my communication, confidence, and interpersonal skills, which have been particularly useful during placements in both community and hospital pharmacy settings. The teachers were always approachable and supportive, regularly offering interventions before school, during breaks, and after school to help students succeed. One piece of advice I would give current students is to choose a subject or career you genuinely care about, not just one you are good at, as passion will help you persevere when things become challenging.
Amy Lea
Subjects studied at Greatfields
History (A*), Sociology (A*) and English Literature (B)
University and course
King’s College London - International Relations
Career aspiration
Consultancy
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields prepared me for what I am doing now by helping me grow both academically and personally during my seven years there. The teachers were not only supportive in the classroom but also approachable and genuinely caring, creating an environment where students felt valued and understood. English Literature helped me build confidence in expressing my ideas, while History and Sociology developed my critical thinking and communication skills. One piece of advice I would give current students is to appreciate the support around you, make the most of every opportunity, and stay consistent. Although the world is much bigger than Barking and Dagenham, the lessons and relationships you build at Greatfields will stay with you long after you leave.
Omar Asghar
Subjects studied at Greatfields
Biology (A), Chemistry (A), Psychology (A)
University and course
King’s College London - Medicine
Career aspiration
Doctor
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
One piece of advice I would give current students is to work consistently and start early. Success comes from building your knowledge steadily over time rather than cramming at the last minute. Focus heavily on exam practice, as examiners assess how well you can apply your knowledge, not just memorise theory. It is also important to manage stress by taking breaks and making time for activities that help you reset mentally.
Hazera Islam
Subjects studied at Greatfields
BTEC Health and Social Care (Distinction)
University and course
St Mary’s University Twickenham.
Career aspiration
Primary School Teacher
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields had teachers who went above and beyond in supporting us to understand our coursework and succeed in exams. They were always kind, welcoming, and willing to help. The Health and Social Care teachers provided effective resources to help break down coursework and also ran morning booster sessions before exams. They were incredibly motivating, and I could not have asked for better teachers. One piece of advice I would give current students is to always make full use of the resources provided, as teachers put a great deal of care and effort into everything they give you.
Madina Bouaziz
Subjects studied at Greatfields
Psychology (A*), Sociology (A*) and History (A)
University and course
King’s College London - Politics
Career aspiration
Lawyer
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields prepared me for what I am doing now by helping me become more independent and academically motivated. My teachers were attentive, supportive, and always willing to go the extra mile, including marking extra work to help me improve. One piece of advice I would give current students is to surround yourself with like-minded people and set clear goals that keep you motivated and focused on your studies.
Nura Nassaro
Subjects studied at Greatfields History (A*), Biology (B), and Chemistry (B)
University and course
UCL - History and Politics
Career aspiration
Civil Service
Advice to students currently at Greatfields
Greatfields’ supportive environment and dedicated teachers encouraged me to challenge myself academically and helped develop my critical thinking skills, which have been invaluable in my studies. For example, Mr Darr, my History teacher, was always willing to mark practice essays and provided detailed, insightful feedback very quickly. Similarly, Miss Ahmed and Mr Ocansey regularly provided exam practice packs in Biology and Chemistry, which helped me build strong revision habits. One piece of advice I would give current students is not to compare yourself too much to others and instead focus on your own progress and goals.